Jeffrey "Jeff" Johnson

Jeffrey "Jeff" Johnson, age 66, passed away on December 28, 2025, in Chesterland, Ohio. Jeff was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and lived a life of devotion to his family. He grew up with his loving parents Charlotte and J.D. along with four siblings, Judy, Harry, Rita, and Cindy. They were a close knit family who shared many wonderful memories. 

Jeff graduated from Euclid High in 1977, where he met his wife Loretta Berardinelli. They met on a double date, each dating the opposite person but soon got together. Many of you may remember Ford Mullinax off Euclid Avenue and Spitzer in Cleveland, where Jeff worked for years in sales and oversaw operations with his father, J.D. Smith. He was the jack of all trades and could fix pretty much anything. Jeff was the type of person to go out of his way to help his family and friends with whatever they needed. If you ever enjoyed the Cleveland Museum of Art, you can thank our dad. He helped maintain the facilities and kept the place running quite literally, as a maintenance man, doing the unseen dirty work. 

Being a kid of the 60's and 70's, Jeff loved rock music and classic cars. He always wanted to know when he could take the kids for a sleepover and was so excited to have bonfires and ride ATVs in the backyard with his grandkids. The kids kept him young and there was never a time he was with them where he wasn’t down on the floor playing and being a big kid himself. He was a fanatic about his lawn and he loved watching Cleveland teams, especially the Browns, never missing a game with his son Jason. He loved being with his wife, kids, and grandchildren. Jeff was an avid reader, gardener, and held many certifications, including Boiler Operator, Housing Inspector, and Site Manager. 

Jeff had a passion for many things, but above all, his family. He coached all three of his kids softball and baseball teams and always spent time practicing and training. Our dad would drive out to Archbishop Hoban in Akron to watch us play after a long day of working on the east side. That was just the type of guy he was. Jeff was a known jokester and story teller, if you had a few minutes, he could really get a few words in. 

He identified as a Christian and sent all three children to Catholic school in the hopes that they would keep their faith and have a better chance of being successful. 

Jeff is survived by his beloved wife Loretta; his sisters Judy Kosmerl and Rita Kelly, daughters Jessica (Keith Baron), Stephanie (Domenic Oriani); and son Jason (Karina), his five precious grandkids; Charlie, Ben, Vinny, Viviana, and Emilia and many nieces, nephews.

He now joins his parents J.D. and Charlotte; sister Cindy; brother Harry; nephew Jimmy; and many more loved ones we miss dearly. The personality, kindness, and loyalty he provided will never be forgotten for a moment. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. We're going to miss you more than you’ll ever know, Dad. 

My dad worked very hard throughout the years, and my mom has been working at Maxims since she was 18 years old. Because his death was unexpected, certain things were unfortunately not locked down financially. With all of the medical costs, household bills, and cost of living as a widow, we ask in lieu of flowers, to donate in any way you can to support Loretta as she navigates this grief. We are going to take care of her and make sure she has all that she needs but with the constant and appreciated support of so many asking how they can help, this would be it. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support during this incredibly difficult time.

In Loving Memory of Jeff, please donate here in his memory for Loretta:

https://gofund.me/b62ad83b5

Eleanor Marcia Kruger

August 27, 1928 – December 15, 2025

Eleanor Marcia Kruger (nee Kizyma), cherished mother, wife and grandmother, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, at the age of 97.  A proud lifelong Clevelander, most recently a resident of Mentor, Ohio, she leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and kindness as evident with all who knew her.

Nothing made Eleanor happier than her family. She was the heart of the home, never missing a birthday and making every holiday feel special. If you visited her, you likely remember the smell of her famous apple pies and pecan tassies—her door was always open to the people she loved.

Eleanor dedicated her life to education. After earning her Master’s degree from Miami University, she spent 30 years with the Cleveland Public Schools—half of that time driving a mobile reading van to share the joy of books with children. She was a voracious reader herself, finishing thousands of books in her lifetime. She even wrote her own stories, leaving behind a beautiful record of her life and history.

Beyond the classroom, Eleanor was active in the Beachland Presbyterian Church Sunday school, as well as her ladies’ bridge and stock investment clubs. She was a frequent visitor to the Chautauqua Institution in New York for theater and cultural events, and a lifelong supporter of charitable and animal welfare foundations.

Eleanor showed us that you don’t have to be loud to be strong. While we will miss her dearly, we feel blessed to have had her in our lives and find peace knowing she accepted Christ and is now with our Lord in heaven.

Eleanor is survived by her beloved son, Carl (Ronelle) Kruger; grandson, Tyler and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Kruger; her daughter, Laura (Pezek) Kruger (survived by companion Jack Shultz); her parents, Stanley Kizyma and Mildred (Baszuk), and her sister, Louise (Kizyma) Cook.

A celebration of life will be planned for the summer, with a date to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local animal rescue or shelter in her memory.

Pamela D. Zimmerman

Pamela D. Zimmerman age 63, of Concord Township passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on December 22,2025. Cherished wife of David A. Devoted mother of Chad Fortenbaugh (Cassie), Rachel (Allen) Garland, Jodie (Brian) Agoney. Loving Nana Pam to Andrea Lee, Raylan Lee, and Ryker McCall. Cherished sister of Cheryl (Tom) Paynter, and the late Jennifer Belt. Devoted daughter of Karen Belt and the late Dorsey Belt. Pamela enjoyed spending time with her nieces and nephews. Pamela belonged to several quilting clubs throughout the area, and made many quilts for her entire family to enjoy. She enjoyed her antiquing where she would find many treasures. For 33 years Pamela was a Retired Cleveland Police Lieutenant who devoted her life to protecting and serving. She adopted many senior dogs, where she gave them a place to finally call home with her. Pamela will be missed by many, but will remain in their hearts forever.

A Service will be held for Pamela 11:00AM on Saturday December 27, 2025 at St. Bede Church, 9114 Lakeshore Boulevard, Mentor, OH 44060 where the family receive friends from 10:00AM until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, all donations may be made in Pamelas name to the Breast Cancer Society.

Shirley Liptak

Shirley D. Liptak, 87, of Mentor OH entered into rest December 20, 2025 at The Hospice of the Western Reserve, Euclid OH. Born Shirley Dawn Spiker in Grantsville MD, daughter of the late Gurney and Dessie Spiker, she was preceded in death by her husband of 36 years, William E. Liptak Jr.

Shirley is survived by her sons Ralph Brown (wife Carol Brown), North Olmsted OH and Thomas Brown (wife Denise Brown), Painesville OH and granddaughters Jessica Brown, Strongsville OH and Alison (Brown) Powell, Bedford OH.

Shirley was a generous and good-natured person who loved gardening, and her gardens won a city beautification award from the City of Mentor in 2009. She also had a fondness for cats, and befriended and cared for several strays during her lifetime. Other interests included crocheting, needlepoint and other crafts.

At Shirley’s request, there will be no reception or formal funeral services. Interment is at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon OH.

Nancy Carol "Messina" Granchi

Nancy Carol "Messina" Granchi,  73, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, at Hospice of the Western Reserve.

Nancy was born in Cleveland on September 21, 1952, but grew up primarily in Willowick OH, Attending North High School. Nancy moved to Geauga County 44 years ago where she worked in the bakery at Chardon Giant Eagle where she preformed her duties for over 20 years as a bakery clerk, while raising her three sons in the beautiful country town of Hambden OH.

Nancy enjoyed watching her soap operas "Days of Our Lives" and "The Young and The Restless" television shows being her favorite, Nancy was a lifelong gambling enthusiast at heart, with video poker being her go to, she enjoyed many countless hours enjoying the casino life and bingo trips with her mother. Nancy also enjoyed road trips and traveling loved cooking and baking, hosting family holiday parties and events. But most of all loved she loved being a grandmother.

Nancy was the beloved mother of sons Joseph Pugh (Donna); Christopher Pugh (Jennifer); and James Granchi.Besides her sons, she is survived by brothers James (Farroncita) Messina; Michael (Margaret) Messina, and Joseph Messina. Grandchildren Ashley Barry, Serina Barry, Nicholas Pugh, Olivia Pugh, Marissa Pugh, and Alexis Granchi; great-granddaughter Alaina Frankina, and nieces Emmy and Lori Messina.She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Mildred (Starkey) Messina and former husband Joseph Granchi.

Nancy had many friends who will feel her loss along with her family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 27th, 2025, from 2 until 7 p.m. at the Hambden Township Hall, 13887 GAR Highway, Chardon, Ohio, 44024.

LaRue E. Hindley

LaRue E Hindley (nee Baskensto), 95, cherished mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025. Born on October 27, 1930, in Allentown, PA, LaRue touched the lives of many with her quiet, unwavering spirit and nurturing heart. Mrs.Hindley most recently resided in Mentor, OH.

LaRue was a proud graduate of the Allentown Hospital School of Nursing, class of 1951, where she began a fulfilling career as a registered nurse; taking a break to raise her four children before continuing her career prior to retirement. Her compassionate care and dedication to her family and patients exemplified the values she lived by.

She is survived by her loving children, David C. (Cathy) Hindley of Newton Falls, OH, Alan C. (Sandy) Hindley of Mentor, Susan R. Haynal of Avon Lake, OH, and Eric S. Hindley of Mentor. LaRue leaves behind seven beloved grandchildren and nine wonderful great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

LaRue was preceded in death by her father, Roman B. Backensto; her mother, Evelyn E. (nee Grammes) Backensto Fink; her brothers, Clayton and Russel Backensto; and her sister, Mary Ann Wetzel.

Though LaRue’s services were private, those who knew her will remember her for her kindness, love, and deep faith. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to a charity of your choice in LaRue's memory.

LaRue Hindley will forever be remembered as a beloved mother and grandmother, and her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.

Janice Pengal De Zeron

Janice passed away peacefully on the morning of December 9, surrounded in love by her niece, Christina Knapp, and her lifelong friend, Judy Parmenter-Oblocki.

Janice grew up in Eastlake, Ohio and graduated from North High School. She began her career in the banking industry, after which she spent many years working as the office manager of an architectural firm.
She was later approved to work for the U.S. government, being stationed in Honduras.
Upon her return she lived in Hialeah, Fla before settling in Las Vegas, NV before retiring back home to Lake County.  

Janice is survived by her daughter Dawn Stevens, three granddaughters, Jessica, Francesca, and Autumn, and one sister, Wendy. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who loved her. 

She is preceded in death by her parents and two brothers.

A celebration of life will be planned for the spring, with dates to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, please make a small donation to your local animal rescue or shelter, thank you.

Patricia Laturell

Patricia (Troha) Laturell

September 10, 1950 – December 1, 2025

Patricia (Troha) Laturell entered into rest on December 1, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on September 10, 1950, in Cleveland, Ohio, she spent the majority of her life in Lake County, where she formed lifelong friendships and touched countless lives with her warmth, humor, and steady presence. Patricia grew up in Painesville Township and was a proud 1968 graduate of Riverside High School.

A dedicated and loyal worker, Patricia spent 35 years with TT Electronics, formerly Apsco Inc., where she was respected by her coworkers. There were many, over the years, that were like her extended family. She was known for her reliability and strong work ethic. After retiring, she enjoyed the peace and comfort of living in her childhood home, sharing her days with her beloved dogs, Maddie and Chloe—her “Twisted Sisters”—who received her love and devotion every single day.

Patricia found great joy in perennial gardening, tending to her houseplants, and spending quiet moments birdwatching in her serene backyard. She cherished God, her life, and the family and friends who surrounded her. Her compassion for helping those in need, combined with her honest, down-to-earth, courageous, spunky, and sometimes brusque personality, made her unforgettable. People loved and respected her for exactly who she was in every moment.

Patricia leaves behind her children: Christine M. Laturell (Timothy Boysko), John E. Laturell (Jennifer Nasca), and Michelle R. Fuller (Ron Fuller); her grandchildren: Alyssa R. Bartley (Joel Bartley), James B. Hissam, Hannah A. Jones (Caleb Jones), and Zechariah J. Fuller; and her great-grandchildren: Kay Marie, Ellie, Emmett, and our newest addition to the family, David. She is also survived by her beloved canine companions, Maddie and Chloe. Patricia also leaves behind many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She is preceded in life everlasting by her mother Helen L. (Komoransky) Troha; her stepmother Nancy L. Troha; her father Joseph R. Troha Sr.; her brother Joseph R. Troha Jr.; and her sister Laura A. (Troha) Millonzi.

A gathering to honor Patricia’s life will be held in the springtime, when the tulips bloom—her favorite season and a reflection of her enduring love for nature.

In lieu of cut flowers, the family suggests donations in Patricia’s name to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or the Sub Zero Mission.

Much love.

Arthur E. Lewis

Arthur E. Lewis, 72, of Eastlake, Ohio, passed away on December 5, 2025. Born in East Cleveland to the late Arthur Sr. and Marie Lewis, Arthur was a 1971 graduate of Kirtland High School. He spent his working years at G & L Sign Company, Continental Cable, and Avery Dennison, but his true passions were found in stories and puzzles.

Arthur was a devoted fan of Star Trek, Star Wars, and the works of Stephen King. In recent years, he could often be found working on complex puzzles. To his family, however, he is remembered for the simple moments shared together.

His daughter Amy cherishes memories of fishing, watching movies, and sharing spaghetti and garlic bread during marathons of Star Trek and Doctor Who. His daughter Kelly recalls the sweetness of making homemade ice cream with him and quiet mornings watching TV, waiting for The Monkees to start so she could wake him up.

Arthur is survived by his daughters, Amy (Dan) Brunson and Kelly (Elisha) Krogen; grandchildren, Travis (Natalie) Brunson, Jason (Amanda) Brunson, Juniper (Sagan) Stefanek, Hezekiah and Xavier Krogen; great-grandson, Adam Brunson; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers, John and Tim Lewis.

The family extends their gratitude to the Lake County Council on Aging for their care and kindness.

Per Arthur's wishes, there will not be a funeral, just a private family gathering.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Lake County Council on Aging.

Gregory James Spada

Gregory James Spada, 72, of Mentor, passed away peacefully in the early hour of Dec. 7, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Greg was born Aug. 12, 1953, to Robert F Spada Sr. and Mary Louise Spada (Noonan). He is survived by his significant other Donna Brown; children, Daniel (Danielle), Patricia Strzalka (Todd), Rick (Kimberly), and Tim (TJ); and grandchildren, Briahna, Kingston, Owen, Gianna, Ella, Avery, Carter, and Taylen. He is also survived by his brothers, Robert Jr. (Mary), Donald, and Jeffrey (Jude); loved Donna's children and grandkids the same as his; and was an uncle and friend to many.

Carol Ann Gillam

Carol Ann Gillam (Motika), 87 went home to the Lord on December 5, 2025 Mrs. Gillam was a devoted wife and mother. She was a real estate agent and the administrative assistant of Gillam Corporation. She loved boating, bowling, crocheting and doing puzzles and an avid reader, enjoyed playing uno each weekend and watching her grandchildren play sports. 
She is preceded in death by her loving husband Homer J Gillam Jr. of 58 years. She is survived by her devoted children, Bonnie (Alan) Cser, Scott (Michele) Gillam, Connie Hasting-DiDonato and Kathleen Widemire; grandchildren, Joseph (Amy), William, Jason, Nicole (Jeremy), Laura, Bryan, Jonathan, Matthew (Lehlah) and Hannah; great-grandchildren, Joseph Jr., Jacob, Mackenzie, Leah, Fiona, Liam, Keira and Niav, Jayden and Kylie, Bethany. 

She was preceded in death by her loving parents Albert and Marguerite Motika.

Services will be held at Whitehaven Cemetery 1:00PM Friday December 12, 2025.

Ruby Lee Grigsby

Ruby Lee Grigsby age 86, passed away peacefully in her sleep on November 27, 2025 surrounded by her family.

Loving mother of Brenda Kohout (James), and Victoria Hudak. Devoted grandmother of Christopher Buck (Ashley), Timothy Buck (Jessica), Donald Buck (Felicia), Megan Meintel (Tony), Daniel Kohout, Samantha Hudak and AJ Hudak. Her great grandchildren, Bentley "B," Jensen, Jax, and Elijah. She was preceded in death by her daughter Karen Sue Buck, and her mother Mable May Carpenter as well as infant granddaughter Sarah Elizabeth Bajzel.

Ruby was born in Clendenin, West Virginia, and moved to Cleveland as a young girl with her mother Mable. She loved to bowl and was in several leagues, until her health would not allow her to bowl anymore. Ruby loved word games, scrabble and crossword puzzles, and working in her yard. She worked for the hose division of Parker Hannifin before moving to Morrison Products from which she retired. 

The family would like to thank Hospice of Heartland for the care they provided.

Ruby will be missed, and forever will remain in everyone's hearts.

Paul William “Bill” Hotchkiss

Paul William (Bill) Hotchkiss, age 86, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025. He was born July 11, 1939 in Cleveland, OH to the late Paul and Mercedes (Doran) Hotchkiss.  Bill grew up in Cleveland, worked a lifetime for National Association of Security Dealers (NASD), and later transferred to the Washington, DC office.  He was a beloved husband of Sharon (Kish) Hotchkiss for 49 years until her passing, July 4, 2021.

Loving Father of Joy (Dan) Daudlin, Laura Hotchkiss Adams, Lynn Hotchkiss (Steven Brewer), and Paul Hotchkiss.  As a father, Bill  was very active in teaching all sports to his son, Paul and daughter, Lynn.  He was an avid golfer and played many courses, golf outings, and St. Andrews of Scotland.   He retired from NASD at age 55, and he lived with Sharon in Vienna, VA since 1981.   He volunteered at Nottoway Park, Vienna.   He liked maintaining his home, creating interior design, and landscaping his property.   He frequented all the Vienna Shops, and filled his home with many treasures.   September 2023, Bill moved back to Cleveland area, and shared a home with his daughter, Laura, where they both enjoyed buying flowers, doing yardwork, going to Shops on the Lake, attending car shows, and visiting friends. He often could be heard playing the guitar poorly, but joyfully on the patio, and drumming on his friend's new professional kit.  His happiest moments at the end of his life were visiting his grandchildren, receiving their calls, and videos.  Bill lived up to the Hotchkiss trait of being funny and spreading "joy" and laughter when with family and friends.    Lastly, being a father to four children, who loved him, was his greatest accomplishment.   

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and all his siblings.  Sisters Joy (the late Rocco) Genovese and Connie (the late Mike) Flynn; brother Larry (the late Karen) Hotchkiss; and brother John David Hotchkiss and wife, (Kelly). 

Grandchildren:   Billy and Tommy Daudlin and their sister Caroline (Chris) Zambataro.   Other grandchildren include Paul (Jackalyn) Listman, Erin (Geoff) St. Germain, and Chloe (Emilio) Rubi. 

Great grandchildren:   Violet, Fiona, Amelia, Hunter, Natalie, David, Sterling, and Florence.

A Celebration of Life  will be held in the New Year.

In lieu of flowers a donation may be made on Bill's behalf to the Victory Baptist Church (roofing fund), 8911 Lakeshore Boulevard, Mentor, OH 44060.

Our family would like to especially thank the Team at Hospice of the Western Reserve for their comfort and care.  They are now our extended family.   We are all very thankful for each of you and your service.    

James “Bo” Martin Jr.

James “Bo” Martin Jr., born in Cleveland Ohio on September 23, 1957 was 68 years old and a long term resident of Eastlake, Ohio, when he passed away peacefully at home surrounded by love on November, 21, 2025 after a courageous battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy.

Bo was the oldest son of seven siblings—a role he took seriously from a young age. He was a steady, hardworking man who led by example and always showed up when someone needed a hand.

After working for his fathers plumbing company in his teen years and mastering the trade, Bo started his own plumbing business, Eastside Plumbing and Sewer, a company he ran with pride and eagerly taught others the trade. He could fix just about anything and was known for doing it right the first time. He was never one to sit still, always working with his hands, tinkering in his garage, or finding a project to tackle.

Bo found joy in the simple things: classic country music, chocolate, Biagio’s donuts, doing yard work and peaceful hours spent in his garage. He was happiest surrounded by his tools and machines, good tunes, and the knowledge that his family was cared for.

He is survived by his Ex-wife and love of his life, Debra Martin, daughters Renee (Chris) Wolf, Jennifer (Michael) Moylan, and Carrie (Mark) Bobeczko; and his eight beloved grandchildren: Dakota, Emma, Hannah, Andrew, Hunter, Allyson, Madelyn, and Elizabeth.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Lakeland Baptist Temple on Roberts Rd in Eastlake on Saturday, December 6th with calling hours from 11am-12pm followed by a service and fellowship after. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you honor Bo’s memory by spreading kindness, caring for one another, or by teaching someone trades that you might know, just as he quietly did throughout his life.

Albert Hrwatzki

Albert Hrwatzki, age 78. Born in Leoben, Austria. Proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps. Former husband of Patricia (deceased). Beloved father of Christy Derezic (Andy) and Melissa Davy (Rich). Cherished grandfather of Angelina and Nicholas Derezic. Brandon (Makenzie) and Corey Davy. Dear great grandfather of Mason and Ellie Davy. Uncle of Sue, Rick, Dave, Mike (Mary) and Greg (Charlene).

Preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Maria; brothers Franz and Edward (Bonnie).

A professional truck driver for many years, whose favorite pastime was riding and working on his Harley. He enjoyed cooking, fishing, and the great outdoors. He loved animals, great and small, as well as living out his retirement in Geneva-On-Lake.

Semper Fidelis
Rest easy, Dad.

Private services will be held.

Raymond F. Muzic Sr.

Raymond F. Muzic, Sr. passed away at age 81 on Sunday, November 16th. Born in Cleveland to Elsie (née Modic) and Joseph Francis Muzic, Ray was the beloved brother of Robert J Muzic.

Ray is survived by his devoted wife of 30 years, JoAnn C. Muzic (nee Cameron, nee Ramey). He was the proud father of Raymond Jr. (Linda), Daniel (Doris), and David (Christina); and cherished grandfather of Kaitlin (Jacob) Cornett, Hannah (Brandon), Aiden, Annabel, Matthew, and Megan. He was also a loving stepfather to Jill (Mark) D’Ambrosia and John Cameron, and step-grandfather to Kassie.

Ray grew up in the Collinwood neighborhood of Cleveland and attended St. Joseph High School. He began his career at Lincoln Electric in 1964 and dedicated 42 years to the company while spending his adult life residing in Lake County. Best known for his soups, always made by the gallon, Ray loved cooking for friends and family. His kitchen was stocked with every gadget imaginable and his toolbox was just as impressive. A true handyman, he tackled countless projects throughout his life.

When not in the kitchen or working on a project, Ray found joy in time spent with his family and beloved grand-dogs. His warmth, generosity, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him

Visitation and funeral mass will occur Saturday April 18, 2026 at St. Bede Catholic Church in Mentor, Ohio.  Afterwards there will be a celebration of life luncheon for friends and family at the church.  Interment at Lake View Cemetery will follow.

Keith Hicks

Keith Hicks, age 60, of Grand River, passed away unexpectedly on November 14, 2025.

Keith proudly carried on the legacy of Kenn’s Carpet Cleaning, the business his father started in 1964, and which his son Tyler will continue. He loved anything with speed, especially his blue Chevy Camaro—fondly reminiscent of the one he cherished in the 1990s.

He is survived by his children, Taylor Gardner (Alan) and Tyler Hicks; his brother, Chuck Campbell (Pam); and his grandchildren, Cooper and Brinley Gardner. He also leaves behind several nieces, great-nieces, and great-nephews, along with his girlfriend, Kim Graham, whose presence brought a light to him his family hadn’t seen in many years.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, McKinley and Clara Hicks.

A celebration of Keith’s life will be held on November 29, 2025, from 1–4 p.m. at Red Creek Bar and Grill, located at 1820 North Ridge Road, Painesville.

Stacey Norman

Stacey Norman, age 55, of Madison, Ohio, passed away on October 9th, 2025.

Stacey grew up in Leroy, Ohio, later residing in Rock Creek before spending a brief period in Northborough, Massachusetts, with her family. She ultimately made her home in Madison, Ohio, where she raised her children, Zach and Emma. Stacey remained in Madison throughout her adult life and lived there until her passing. Stacey began her nursing career after earning her LPN and working in long-term care. She later completed her bachelor’s degree in nursing at Kent State and became a registered nurse. Over the years, she advanced into leadership roles, eventually serving as a Director of Nursing. She was known for her strong work ethic and dedication to her patients and staff. Stacey had recently accepted a new position but unfortunately passed just prior to starting.

She was straightforward, hardworking, and had a great sense of humor that left a lasting impression on everyone around her. Stacey had a deep love for animals. She frequently supported and donated to animal foundations which she continued throughout her life. She also loved movies and could always be counted on to share a good recommendation or quote a favorite line.

She is survived by her son, Zach Armstrong, and his spouse, Alex Armstrong; her daughter, Emma Norman; her mother, Joyce Armstrong; and her brother, Jason Armstrong.

In keeping with Stacey’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Her family will honor her privately and spread her ashes in Florida, a place she had long hoped and been planning to call home.

Polly Johns McCoy

Polly Johns McCoy, born December 19, 1941, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025, with her family by her side after a lengthy string of health complications.

Born as Polly Barkwell Johns at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio, she was the daughter of Samual Charles Johns and Carolyn Snyder. Polly spent her childhood in Shaker Heights and Willoughby, where she grew into the social and spirited woman her family knew and loved. She was very fond of her summers spent at a girls camp in Canada canoeing and hiking. 

As a young woman Polly married Richard C. Mitchell, and together they welcomed three children: Richard William Mitchell, Kelly Sue Mitchell Dec, and Nancy Ann (Michael) Arnett. She later married Robert E. Willson, and they were blessed with one son, Robert Johns (Amy) Willson.

In October of 1992, Polly married the love of her life, Harold “Mickey” McCoy, in Lakeland, Florida. Their years together were filled with joy, service, and laughter. Polly lovingly became stepmother to his adult children, Russell (Diane) McCoy and Suzzane McCoy Clifton. In their retirement community, Mickey and Polly were well known and deeply loved. They worked together offering lawn care, airport rides, and ironing services, but their greatest delight came at Christmastime. With hundreds of decorations both inside and out, the two brought magic to their neighborhood—greeting visitors as Santa Claus and his elf.

After Mickey’s passing in 2017, Polly spent two years as a widow before moving back to Ohio in 2019 to live with her daughter Nancy. In her later years she embraced her faith, becoming a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Polly was quick to make friends wherever she went, and she treasured the time she spent with her many Ohio family. She especially enjoyed knitting and crocheting gifts for the people she loved. She also had a huge soft spot for animals of all kinds!

Polly is survived by her four children; many grandchildren; and multiple great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death and welcomed home by her parents; her beloved husband Mickey; many dear friends; and her siblings: Samuel Charles Johns Jr., Margaret Anne Johns Butzer, and Patricia Jarvis Johns Karlovec.

In lieu of flowers, donations toward funeral expenses may be sent to Nancy Arnett.

A memorial service for Polly will be held on Friday, November 21st at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 4411 Windall Rd., Medina, OH 44256.

Polly and Mickey will have a final resting place together at the Ohio Western National Cemetery in Seville, Ohio, at a future date.

Donald Alan Weitman

Donald Alan Weitman, a wonderful and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025 at the age of 87. Born in 1937, Don lived a life rooted in love, service, and unwavering dedication to the people who meant the most to him.

Don was the beloved husband of Jeanne (Sayler) Weitman, with whom he shared a rich life filled with partnership, laughter, and steadfast support for 64 years. He was the proud father of David Weitman and Karen Brastoff (Larry), and a cherished grandfather to Amy Brown (Carl), Austin Packard, Donald Weitman, Zachary Weitman and Jacob Weitman. Don’s joy only grew as he welcomed his great-grandchildren, Logan Brown and Darcy Brown, who brought an extra spark to his later years. Don was a caring brother to Bruce Weitman (Judi) and uncle to Cheri Weitman, Julie Weitman, John Omerza (Carol), Kenneth Newhouse and Jeffrey Newhouse.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Dorothy Weitman, David and Linda Omerza (sister) and Marianne and Ronald Newhouse (cousin).

Don was a natural leader and lifelong athlete playing many sports with his teammates at Wickliffe High School and beyond, enjoying bowling, softball and golf most of his adult life. Additionally, he spent many seasons as a coach and Scout Leader, shaping young lives with patience and humor while teaching the skills of teamwork and sportsmanship.

Don honorably served in the United States Army and Army National Guard in Field Artillery as a Private Second Class (E-2) with Bravo Battery, 7th Training Battalion and Air Defense at Fort Bliss in Texas. Don then combined his National Pride, discipline and deep love of music by joining the Ohio National Guard’s 122nd Army Band, a staple of the musical tradition of the United States Military in Ohio. After serving in the military, Don formed two Cleveland based polka bands. The Keynotes and the Don Weitman Trio played at festivals and receptions all over Northeast Ohio for many years. .

Don was a dedicated member and leader at Auburn Community United Church of Christ, where his faith and service enriched the entire congregation. Throughout his life, he called many places home. In Ohio, Don lived in Wickliffe, Mentor, Kelleys Island and Chagrin Falls. In 2002, he retired to Sanford, North Carolina where he and Jeanne enjoyed friendships and activities in the Carolina Trace community. Don’s final years with Jeanne were spent in the senior communities of Chardon, Hiram and Hudson, Ohio.

Don was a lifetime salesman and marking executive, an avid golfer and an enthusiastic supporter of his children and grandchildren. Don and Jeanne could often be found near a playing field or a concert hall cheering with pride and holding hands. Above all, Don believed in family first. His kindness, strength, and generosity live on in the people he loved so deeply.

He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A private memorial service will be held.